Dear Readers, Daily Current Affairs Questions Quiz for SBI, IBPS, RBI, RRB, SSC Exam 2025 of 31st December 2025. Daily GK quiz online for bank & competitive exam. Here we have given the Daily Current Affairs Quiz based on the previous days Daily Current Affairs updates. Candidates preparing for IBPS, SBI, RBI, RRB, SSC Exam 2025 & other competitive exams can make use of these Current Affairs Quiz.

 

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1) Under SEBI’s strengthened norms effective January 3, 2026, what is the minimum net worth requirement for Category I merchant bankers by January 2, 2028?

(a) ₹25 crore

(b) ₹30 crore

(c) ₹40 crore

(d) ₹50 crore

(e) ₹60 crore

2) Which of the following statements regarding Small Savings Scheme (SSS) interest rates for Q4 FY26 is correct?

(a) Interest rates on Small Savings Schemes were revised upward in Q4 FY26 after a gap of four quarters.

(b) Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana (SSY) carried an interest rate of 8.2%, the highest among Small Savings Schemes in Q4 FY26.

(c) Public Provident Fund (PPF) offered a higher interest rate than National Savings Certificate (NSC) in Q4 FY26.

(d) Kisan Vikas Patra (KVP) had a maturity period of 120 months in Q4 FY26.

(e) Mahila Samman Savings Certificate (MSSC) carried an interest rate of 7.8% in Q4 FY26.

3) As of 2026, Raajmarg Infra Investment Trust (RIIT), which recently received a AAA (Stable) rating from CARE Ratings, is sponsored by which organization?

(a) National Highways Authority of India (NHAI)

(b) Ministry of Road Transport and Highways

(c) National Investment and Infrastructure Fund (NIIF)

(d) Indian Road Congress (IRC)

(e) Power Finance Corporation (PFC)

4) Under the revised tax framework effective from 1 February 2026, what is the GST rate applicable on pan masala and cigarettes?

(a) 18%

(b) 28%

(c) 35%

(d) 45%

(e) 40%

5) During its 51st Board Meeting, Sagarmala Finance Corporation Limited (SMFCL) sanctioned loans worth approximately how much after commencing lending operations?

(a) ₹2,500 crore

(b) ₹3,200 crore

(c) ₹4,000 crore

(d) ₹4,300 crore

(e) ₹5,000 crore

6) The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has given in-principle approval for a loan to which Indian state for Phase-I of the Musi River Development Project?

(a) Andhra Pradesh

(b) Karnataka

(c) Telangana

(d) Maharashtra

(e) Tamil Nadu

7) In 2026, States and Union Territories (UTs) are expected to borrow approximately how much in Q4 FY26 (Jan–Mar 2026)?

(a) ₹5 lakh crore

(b) ₹4 lakh crore

(c) ₹4.5 lakh crore

(d) ₹3.5 lakh crore

(e) ₹6 lakh crore

8) As of 2026, Which group has received in-principle approval from SEBI to act as a Sponsor and establish a new Mutual Fund?

(a) Edelweiss Group

(b) Ashika Group

(c) Motilal Oswal Group

(d) JM Financial Group

(e) IIFL Group

9) In 2026, SEBI has mandated which NISM certification for Compliance Officers of Alternative Investment Fund (AIF) managers, effective from January 1, 2027?

(a) NISM Series-I: Currency Derivatives

(b) NISM Series-III-A: Securities Intermediaries Compliance

(c) NISM Series-III-B: Issuers Compliance

(d) NISM Series-III-C: Securities Intermediaries Compliance (Fund)

(e) NISM Series-V-A: Mutual Fund Distributors

10) From January 1, 2026, which currency did Bulgaria adopt as its official legal tender, replacing the Bulgarian lev (BGN)?

(a) US Dollar (USD)

(b) Euro (EUR)

(c) Swiss Franc (CHF)

(d) British Pound (GBP)

(e) Danish Krone (DKK)

11) In 2026, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Grand International Exposition of Sacred Piprahwa Relics in which city?

(a) New Delhi

(b) Bodh Gaya

(c) Lumbini

(d) Varanasi

(e) Sarnath

12) From January 1, 2026, what has the Delhi Public Works Department (PWD) made mandatory on all new road signages?

(a) RFID tags

(b) QR codes

(c) GPS coordinates

(d) Holographic stickers

(e) Barcodes

13) Which city is close to becoming India’s first slum-free city through large-scale redevelopment of slum clusters?

(a) Ahmedabad

(b) Rajkot

(c) Pune

(d) Indore

(e) Surat

14) Which agency released the data showing that India crossed 100 crore broadband subscribers in November 2025?

(a) Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI)

(b) National Informatics Centre (NIC)

(c) Press Information Bureau (PIB)

(d) Ministry of Electronics & IT (MeitY)

(e) NITI Aayog

15) The Goa government has announced the formation of a third district with headquarters at which town?

(a) Quepem

(b) Panaji

(c) Margao

(d) Vasco da Gama

(e) Mapusa

16) Which state government has constituted a Core Committee and Task Force to protect its energy infrastructure from cyber-attacks?

(a) Maharashtra

(b) Gujarat

(c) Karnataka

(d) Tamil Nadu

(e) Rajasthan

17) According to the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA), how many tiger deaths were recorded in India in 2025?

(a) 126

(b) 140

(c) 150

(d) 160

(e) 166

18) Who inaugurated the E-Bill System for fertiliser subsidies in New Delhi?

(a) Piyush Goyal

(b) Nirmala Sitharaman

(c) Jagat Prakash Nadda

(d) Narendra Singh Tomar

(e) Rajnath Singh

19) Who has been appointed as Director General (DG) of Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC)?

(a) Rabindra Kumar Agarwal

(b) Arun Kumar Mehta

(c) Sanjay Malhotra

(d) Rajesh Kumar Singh

(e) Lav Aggarwal

20) As of 2026, Karthikeyan Manickam Appointed as Chairman of ESAF Small Finance Bank.

Where is the headquarters of ESAF Small Finance Bank?

(a) Kochi, Kerala

(b) Thrissur, Kerala

(c) Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala

(d) Bangalore, Karnataka

(e) Chennai, Tamil Nadu

21) Which missile was successfully salvo-launched by DRDO from the Integrated Test Range (ITR), Chandipur?

(a) Pralay

(b) Prithvi

(c) Agni

(d) BrahMos

(e) Nirbhay

22) Which Hyderabad-based start-ups successfully tested and integrated the 14-kg Earth observation satellite MOI-1?

(a) TakeMe2Space and EON Space Labs

(b) Skyroot Aerospace and Pixxel

(c) AgniKul Cosmos and Bellatrix Aerospace

(d) Astrogate Labs and Dhruva Space

(e) SatSure and IdeaForge

23) Which stage of the Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV) was successfully tested by Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)at Satish Dhawan Space Centre?

(a) Stage 1 (SS1)

(b) Stage 2 (SS2)

(c) Stage 3 (SS3)

(d) Booster stage

(e) Upper cryogenic stage

24) As of 2026, Mumbai’s Kaamya Karthikeyan, 18, Becomes Youngest Woman to Complete Seven Summits. Shecompleted her final summit of the Seven Summits in Antarctica. Which mountain did she climb?

(a) Mount Everest

(b) Mount Elbrus

(c) Mount Kilimanjaro

(d) Mount Vinson

(e) Mount Denali

25) From January 1, 2026, select provisions of which law came into effect, reforming India’s sports governance framework?

(a) National Sports Policy, 2025

(b) National Sports Governance Act, 2025

(c) Sports Authority of India Act, 2025

(d) Olympic Games (India) Regulation Act, 2025

(e) National Physical Fitness Act, 2025

26) Which Indian chess player won the bronze medal in the Blitz event at the World Rapid and Blitz Chess Championship 2025?

(a) Rameshbabu Praggnanandhaa

(b) Viswanathan Anand

(c) Arjun Erigaisi

(d) D. Gukesh

(e) Nihal Sarin

27) Which ministry unveiled a new official logo and mascot to modernise its institutional identity and promote data-driven governance?

(a) Ministry of Finance

(b) Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI)

(c) Ministry of Planning

(d) Ministry of Information and Broadcasting

(e) Ministry of Electronics & IT

28) Who has been appointed as the Chief Coach of the Indian women’s hockey team?

(a) Sjoerd Marijne

(b) Janneke Schopman

(c) Harendra Singh

(d) Roelant Oltmans

(e) Prasad Raghunath

29) As of 2026, World Braille Day is observed every year on which date?

(a) 1 January

(b) 2 January

(c) 3 January

(d) 4 January

(e) 5 January

30) As of 2026, Bulgaria became which numbered member of the Eurozone after adopting the euro?

(a) 19th

(b) 20th

(c) 23^rd

(d) 22nd

(e) 21st

Answers :

1) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has strengthened capital, compliance, certification, governance, and operational norms for merchant bankers to enhance financial stability and investor protection, effective from January 3, 2026.

Category I merchant bankers (permitted to manage main-board IPOs) must have a net worth of ₹25 crore by Jan 2, 2027, rising to ₹50 crore by Jan 2, 2028, with liquid net worth (unencumbered cash/near-cash) of ₹6.25 crore and ₹12.5 crore respectively.

Detailed Explanation:

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has strengthened capital, compliance, certification, governance, and operational norms for merchant bankers to enhance financial stability and investor protection, effective from January 3, 2026.

Category I merchant bankers (permitted to manage main-board IPOs) must have a net worth of ₹25 crore by Jan 2, 2027, rising to ₹50 crore by Jan 2, 2028, with liquid net worth (unencumbered cash/near-cash) of ₹6.25 crore and ₹12.5 crore respectively.

Category II merchant bankers (restricted from main-board IPOs but permitted for SME IPOs/advisory) must have a net worth of ₹7.5 crore and ₹10 crore, with liquid net worth of ₹1.875 crore and ₹2.5 crore in the two phases.

2) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

Interest Rates on Small Savings Schemes – Q4 FY26

Post Office Savings Deposit (POSD): 4.0%

1-Year Post Office Time Deposit (POTD): 6.9%

2-Year POTD: 7.0%

3-Year POTD: 7.1%

5-Year POTD: 7.5%

5-Year Post Office Recurring Deposit (PORD): 6.7%

Kisan Vikas Patra (KVP): 7.5% (Maturity: 115 months)

Public Provident Fund (PPF): 7.1%

Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana (SSY): 8.2%

National Savings Certificate (NSC): 7.7%

Senior Citizen Savings Scheme (SCSS): 8.2%

Post Office Monthly Income Scheme (PO-MIS): 7.4%

Mahila Samman Savings Certificate (MSSC): 7.5%

Detailed Explanation:

The Department of Economic Affairs (DEA–Budget Division) under the Ministry of Finance (MoF) kept interest rates unchanged across all Small Savings Schemes (SSS) for Q4 FY26 (1 Jan–31 Mar 2026).

This is the 8th consecutive quarter with no change in SSS interest rates; rates were last revised in Q4 FY24.

The decision covers key schemes including Public Provident Fund (PPF) and Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana (SSY).

Interest Rates on Small Savings Schemes – Q4 FY26

Post Office Savings Deposit (POSD): 4.0%

1-Year Post Office Time Deposit (POTD): 6.9%

2-Year POTD: 7.0%

3-Year POTD: 7.1%

5-Year POTD: 7.5%

5-Year Post Office Recurring Deposit (PORD): 6.7%

Kisan Vikas Patra (KVP): 7.5% (Maturity: 115 months)

Public Provident Fund (PPF): 7.1%

Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana (SSY): 8.2%

National Savings Certificate (NSC): 7.7%

Senior Citizen Savings Scheme (SCSS): 8.2%

Post Office Monthly Income Scheme (PO-MIS): 7.4%

Mahila Samman Savings Certificate (MSSC): 7.5%

3) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

Raajmarg Infra Investment Trust (RIIT), sponsored by National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), has received a AAA (Stable) rating for its long-term bank facilities from CARE Ratings Limited.

The AAA (Stable) rating is the highest credit rating, indicating very strong financial health and extremely low risk of default on debt.

Detailed Explanation:

Raajmarg Infra Investment Trust (RIIT), sponsored by National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), has received a AAA (Stable) rating for its long-term bank facilities from CARE Ratings Limited.

The AAA (Stable) rating is the highest credit rating, indicating very strong financial health and extremely low risk of default on debt.

The Stable outlook suggests that RIIT’s credit profile is expected to remain unchanged in the near to medium term.

The rating reflects the experience, credibility, and track record of NHAI in the roads and highways sector, along with the strategic importance of NHAI’s asset monetization programme, which has monetized assets worth around ₹1.43 lakh crore to date.

4) Answer: E

Short Explanation:

The Ministry of Finance (MoF) has notified a revised tax framework for ‘sin goods’ such as tobacco, pan masala, gutkha and cigarettes, effective from 1 February 2026.

GST rates remain unchanged, with pan masala, cigarettes and other tobacco products attracting 40% GST, while biris continue to be taxed at 18% GST.

Detailed Explanation:

The Ministry of Finance (MoF) has notified a revised tax framework for ‘sin goods’ such as tobacco, pan masala, gutkha and cigarettes, effective from 1 February 2026.

The new framework replaces the GST Compensation Cess with additional excise duty and a Health and National Security Cess.

The objective is to rationalise taxation on sin goods while balancing government revenue and public health goals.

GST rates remain unchanged, with pan masala, cigarettes and other tobacco products attracting 40% GST, while biris continue to be taxed at 18% GST.

From 1 February 2026, tobacco products will attract an extra excise duty, and pan masala will be subject to a Health and National Security Cess, in addition to the existing GST.

5) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

Sagarmala Finance Corporation Limited (SMFCL), India’s first NBFC dedicated to maritime financing, commenced lending operations and sanctioned loans worth around ₹4,300 crore during its 51st Board Meeting held on December 30, 2025.

Detailed Explanation:

Sagarmala Finance Corporation Limited (SMFCL), India’s first NBFC dedicated to maritime financing, commenced lending operations and sanctioned loans worth around ₹4,300 crore during its 51st Board Meeting held on December 30, 2025.

With this step, SMFCL formally entered the maritime lending space, in line with the strategy approved by its Board, strengthening India’s port and maritime financing ecosystem.

A major portion of funding includes ₹4,000 crore allocated for a Greenfield Port Project, reaffirming the Government of India’s (GoI) commitment to port-led development under the Sagarmala vision.

Under the same loan tranche, Dredging Corporation of India (DCI) received ₹150 crore, while Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL) secured ₹110 crore, aimed at enhancing dredging capacity and indigenous shipbuilding capabilities.

6) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has granted in-principle approval for a ₹4,100 crore ($500 million) loan to the Telangana Government for Phase-I of the Musi River Development Project.

The Telangana Government submitted a Preliminary Project Report (PPR) to the Ministry of Jal Shakti (MoJS) seeking ₹3,188 crore under the National River Conservation Plan (NRCP).

Detailed Explanation:

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has granted in-principle approval for a ₹4,100 crore ($500 million) loan to the Telangana Government for Phase-I of the Musi River Development Project.

The Telangana Government submitted a Preliminary Project Report (PPR) to the Ministry of Jal Shakti (MoJS) seeking ₹3,188 crore under the National River Conservation Plan (NRCP).

The Musi River Development Project is divided into five zones, with Phase-I covering 21 km of Zone-I, from Osman Sagar (Gandipet) to Bapu Ghat and Himayatsagar to Bapu Ghat, out of a total project length of 55 km.

The Musi Riverfront Development Corporation Limited (MRDCL), a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) of the Telangana Government, is executing Phase-I.

The Detailed Project Report (DPR) is prepared by a consortium led by Meinhardt (Singapore), along with Cushman & Wakefield India and RIOS Design Studio.

Phase-I works are expected to begin after cost estimates finalization by 31 March 2026.

7) Answer: A

States and Union Territories (UTs) are expected to borrow around ₹5 lakh crore in Q4FY26 (January–March 2026), higher than ₹4,73,477 crore borrowed in the same quarter last year.

The Q4FY26 borrowing is about 1.77 times higher than the borrowing in the previous quarter (Q3FY26).

8) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

Ashika Group received in-principle approval from Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) to act as a Sponsor and establish Ashika Mutual Fund (MF), enabling the formation of an Asset Management Company (AMC), subject to final registration.

Detailed Explanation:

Ashika Group received in-principle approval from Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) to act as a Sponsor and establish Ashika Mutual Fund (MF), enabling the formation of an Asset Management Company (AMC), subject to final registration.

The approval allows Ashika Mutual Fund to begin preparations for scheme launches, once final SEBI registration is granted.

Ashika Group, established in 1994, operates as a diversified financial services platform offering Retail and Institutional Broking, Investment Banking & Advisory, Alternative Investment Funds (AIFs), Research & Advisory, Global Family Office Services, NBFC operations, and distribution services.

9) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has mandated National Institute of Securities Markets (NISM) certification for Compliance Officers of Alternative Investment Fund (AIF) managers, effective from January 1, 2027, to strengthen regulatory compliance.

Only individuals who clear the NISM Series-III-C: Securities Intermediaries Compliance (Fund) Certification Examination will be eligible to be appointed or continue as Compliance Officers of AIF managers from the effective date.

Detailed Explanation:

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has mandated National Institute of Securities Markets (NISM) certification for Compliance Officers of Alternative Investment Fund (AIF) managers, effective from January 1, 2027, to strengthen regulatory compliance.

Only individuals who clear the NISM Series-III-C: Securities Intermediaries Compliance (Fund) Certification Examination will be eligible to be appointed or continue as Compliance Officers of AIF managers from the effective date.

Trustees, Sponsors and Managers of AIFs must explicitly disclose compliance with the NISM certification mandate in the Annual Compliance Test Report as directed by SEBI.

AIF managers and existing compliance officers are advised to register early and complete the NISM Series-III-C exam well before the January 1, 2027 deadline to ensure uninterrupted eligibility.

10) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

Bulgaria adopted the Euro (EUR) as its official currency from January 1, 2026, replacing the Bulgarian lev (BGN) after approval by the Council of the European Union (EU) on July 8, 2025, confirming compliance with all Maastricht convergence criteria.

The irrevocable conversion rate was fixed at 1 EUR = 1.95583 BGN, ensuring a smooth and legally binding transition from the national currency to the euro.

With this move, Bulgaria became the 21st member of the Eurozone, marking a significant step toward deeper economic integration with the European Union.

Detailed Explanation:

Bulgaria adopted the Euro (EUR) as its official currency from January 1, 2026, replacing the Bulgarian lev (BGN) after approval by the Council of the European Union (EU) on July 8, 2025, confirming compliance with all Maastricht convergence criteria.

The irrevocable conversion rate was fixed at 1 EUR = 1.95583 BGN, ensuring a smooth and legally binding transition from the national currency to the euro.

With this move, Bulgaria became the 21st member of the Eurozone, marking a significant step toward deeper economic integration with the European Union.

During January 2026, both BGN and EUR will be accepted for payments across Bulgaria, but change will be given only in euros, facilitating a gradual transition for citizens and businesses.

From February 1, 2026, the euro becomes the sole legal tender, and the Bulgarian lev will be completely withdrawn from daily circulation, completing the currency changeover.

11) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Grand International Exposition of Sacred Piprahwa Relics in New Delhi, showcasing rare Buddhist relics linked to Bhagwan Buddha and highlighting India’s civilisational and spiritual heritage.

Detailed Explanation:

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Grand International Exposition of Sacred Piprahwa Relics in New Delhi, showcasing rare Buddhist relics linked to Bhagwan Buddha and highlighting India’s civilisational and spiritual heritage.

The exhibition features the Piprahwa relics discovered in 1898, which are among the earliest archaeological remains directly associated with Buddha.

Archaeological evidence links Piprahwa with ancient Kapilavastu, believed to be the place where Buddha spent his early life before renunciation, making the relics crucial to understanding early Buddh

12) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

Delhi Public Works Department has made QR codes mandatory on all new road signages, as per guidelines issued on January 1, 2026, to improve transparency, accountability, and quality standards.

All future road signages on Public Works Department roads must carry a QR code, printed on the bottom-right corner of the signboard.

Detailed Explanation:

Delhi Public Works Department has made QR codes mandatory on all new road signages, as per guidelines issued on January 1, 2026, to improve transparency, accountability, and quality standards.

All future road signages on Public Works Department roads must carry a QR code, printed on the bottom-right corner of the signboard.

The QR code will provide key manufacturing details, including manufacturer name, manufacturing date, material used, reflective sheeting code, and warranty information.

The requirement has been made mandatory in the tendering process, ensuring compliance by all contractors executing road signage works.

The QR codes will be linked with the PWD Sewa mobile application, enabling citizens to scan the signboard and lodge complaints related to damaged signages, potholes, road repairs, and streetlights.

13) Answer: E

Short Explanation:

Surat in Gujarat is close to becoming India’s first slum-free city, due to large-scale redevelopment of slum clusters into permanent housing with basic civic amenities.

The initiative is being implemented by the Surat Municipal Corporation, using a mission-mode approach under central and state housing schemes.

Detailed Explanation:

Surat in Gujarat is close to becoming India’s first slum-free city, due to large-scale redevelopment of slum clusters into permanent housing with basic civic amenities.

The initiative is being implemented by the Surat Municipal Corporation, using a mission-mode approach under central and state housing schemes.

Most slum areas are being redeveloped through in-situ slum redevelopment, where multi-storey apartment complexes are constructed at the same location.

Slum-dwelling families are provided permanent and legal housing, ensuring they are not displaced far from livelihoods, schools, or social networks.

The housing projects provide durable flats with essential civic amenities, including piped drinking water, proper drainage and sewage systems, street lighting, paved internal roads, sanitation, and waste management facilities.

Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) provides central financial assistance, while Gujarat state housing policies complement funding and implementation.

14) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

India crossed the historic milestone of 100 crore broadband subscribers in November 2025, reflecting rapid digital expansion and deepening internet penetration across the country.

As per data released by the Press Information Bureau, the total number of broadband subscribers stood at 100.37 crore by the end of November 2025, making India one of the largest digitally connected nations in the world.

Detailed Explanation:

India crossed the historic milestone of 100 crore broadband subscribers in November 2025, reflecting rapid digital expansion and deepening internet penetration across the country.

As per data released by the Press Information Bureau, the total number of broadband subscribers stood at 100.37 crore by the end of November 2025, making India one of the largest digitally connected nations in the world.

The growth represents a more than six-fold increase over the last decade, highlighting the success of sustained policy support and technological adoption.

In November 2015, India had 13.15 crore broadband subscribers, which rose sharply to 100.37 crore by November 2025, indicating accelerated digital transformation.

15) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

The Goa government has announced the formation of a third district, carved out of the existing South Goa district, to improve administrative efficiency and governance outreach.

The headquarters of the new district will be at Quepem, aimed at making administration more accessible to people in southern and hinterland regions of the state.

Detailed Explanation:

The Goa government has announced the formation of a third district, carved out of the existing South Goa district, to improve administrative efficiency and governance outreach.

The headquarters of the new district will be at Quepem, aimed at making administration more accessible to people in southern and hinterland regions of the state.

The new district will comprise four talukas: Sanguem, Dharbandora, Quepem, and Canacona, which are largely hinterland and semi-rural areas.

At present, Goa has only two districts: North Goa and South Goa. After reorganisation, South Goa is expected to retain Ponda, Salcete, and Mormugao, while the remaining four talukas will form the new district.

16) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

The Gujarat government has constituted an 11-member Core Committee and a 19-member Task Force to protect the state’s energy infrastructure from cyber-attacks.

The decision has been taken by the Energy and Petrochemicals Department (EPD), Gujarat, in view of rising cyber risks due to increased digitalisation in the power sector.

Detailed Explanation:

The Gujarat government has constituted an 11-member Core Committee and a 19-member Task Force to protect the state’s energy infrastructure from cyber-attacks.

The decision has been taken by the Energy and Petrochemicals Department (EPD), Gujarat, in view of rising cyber risks due to increased digitalisation in the power sector.

The move focuses on securing smart grids, SCADA systems, smart meters, and digital power supply networks that support 24×7 electricity services.

The Core Committee will review the overall cyber security strategy in the energy sector and examine policies, preparedness, and system resilience.

It will also suggest long-term frameworks and improvements to strengthen cyber security of critical energy infrastructure.

17) Answer: E

Short Explanation:

India recorded 166 tiger deaths in 2025, which is 40 more than in 2024, according to data released by the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA).

Madhya Pradesh reported the highest number of tiger deaths at 55, followed by Maharashtra (38), Kerala (13), and Assam (12).

Detailed Explanation:

India recorded 166 tiger deaths in 2025, which is 40 more than in 2024, according to data released by the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA).

This increase has raised concerns despite India hosting the largest tiger population in the world.

Madhya Pradesh reported the highest number of tiger deaths at 55, followed by Maharashtra (38), Kerala (13), and Assam (12).

Out of the total deaths, 31 were cubs, indicating increased vulnerability of younger tigers.

The number of deaths rose significantly from 126 in 2024 to 166 in 2025, reflecting rising stress on tiger habitats.

18) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

The E-Bill System for fertiliser subsidies has been inaugurated by Jagat Prakash Nadda, Union Minister for Chemicals and Fertilizers, in New Delhi.

The system will be used to process fertiliser subsidy payments of around ₹2 lakh crore, marking a major shift towards digital, transparent, and efficient financial governance.

Detailed Explanation:

The E-Bill System for fertiliser subsidies has been inaugurated by Jagat Prakash Nadda, Union Minister for Chemicals and Fertilizers, in New Delhi.

The system will be used to process fertiliser subsidy payments of around ₹2 lakh crore, marking a major shift towards digital, transparent, and efficient financial governance.

The E-Bill System is an end-to-end online digital platform designed to process fertiliser subsidy claims electronically.

Earlier, fertiliser subsidy bills were processed through physical files, manual verification, and multiple approval layers, which often resulted in delays and inefficiencies.

Under the new system, subsidy claims will move digitally from fertiliser companies to the government through an integrated electronic workflow.

19) Answer: E

The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC), chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, appointed Lav Aggarwal as Director General (DG) of Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) under the Ministry of Commerce & Industry (MoC&I) and Rabindra Kumar Agarwal as Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) of Food Corporation of India (FCI) as part of a major bureaucratic reshuffle involving 25 senior civil servants, including in-situ promotions and reassignments.

20) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

ESAF Small Finance Bank, headquartered in Thrissur, Kerala, appointed Karthikeyan Manickam as its Chairman, strengthening the bank’s leadership.

Detailed Explanation:

ESAF Small Finance Bank, headquartered in Thrissur, Kerala, appointed Karthikeyan Manickam as its Chairman, strengthening the bank’s leadership.

Karthikeyan Manickam brings over 36 years of experience in public sector banking, having previously served as Executive Director of Bank of India (BoI).

During his banking career, he held several senior leadership positions at Indian Bank, gaining extensive operational and managerial expertise.

21) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully conducted a salvo launch (simultaneous firing) of two indigenously developed Pralay missiles in quick succession from the same launcher at the Integrated Test Range (ITR), Chandipur, Odisha, as part of user evaluation trials.

Detailed Explanation:

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully conducted a salvo launch (simultaneous firing) of two indigenously developed Pralay missiles in quick succession from the same launcher at the Integrated Test Range (ITR), Chandipur, Odisha, as part of user evaluation trials.

During the flight-test, both Pralay missiles accurately followed their intended trajectories and achieved all mission objectives, confirming their operational reliability.

Missile performance was validated using tracking sensors deployed at ITR, Chandipur, while terminal events were confirmed through onboard telemetry systems installed on ships near designated impact points.

The trials were witnessed by senior DRDO scientists, officials from the Indian Army (IA), Indian Air Force (IAF), and industry representatives, indicating user-level confidence.

22) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

Two Hyderabad-based space start-ups – TakeMe2Space and EON Space Labs – have successfully tested and integrated a 14-kg Earth observation satellite (MOI-1) along with a miniature space telescope (MIRA).

The satellite was tested and integrated at Azista BST Aerospace, Ahmedabad, and has been shipped to Sriharikota for its upcoming launch.

Detailed Explanation:

Two Hyderabad-based space start-ups – TakeMe2Space and EON Space Labs – have successfully tested and integrated a 14-kg Earth observation satellite (MOI-1) along with a miniature space telescope (MIRA).

The satellite was tested and integrated at Azista BST Aerospace, Ahmedabad, and has been shipped to Sriharikota for its upcoming launch.

MOI-1 will be deployed in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) at ~500 km altitude, with an expected mission life of 3–5 years, serving both commercial and defence applications.

The entire mission was completed in just six months at a cost of ₹2.5 crore, making it 40–70% cheaper and significantly lighter than typical global satellites weighing 100–200 kg.

23) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

Detailed Explanation:

Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully conducted a static ground test of the enhanced 3rd stage (SS3) of the Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV) at the Solid Motor Static Test Facility, Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC), Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh.

SSLV is a three-stage, all-solid launch vehicle designed for quick, on-demand missions and to support industrial-scale production of launch services.

During the test, the enhanced SS3 motor was fired for 108 seconds, with all performance parameters closely matching pre-test predictions.

24) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

Kaamya Karthikeyan, an 18-year-old from Mumbai, became the youngest female in the world to scale the Seven Summits (the highest peaks on all seven continents).

She is a Class 12 student of Navy Children School, Mumbai, and completed her final summit in Antarctica (Mount Vinson) followed by a trek to the South Pole on December 27, 2025.

Detailed Explanation:

Kaamya Karthikeyan, an 18-year-old from Mumbai, became the youngest female in the world to scale the Seven Summits (the highest peaks on all seven continents).

She is a Class 12 student of Navy Children School, Mumbai, and completed her final summit in Antarctica (Mount Vinson) followed by a trek to the South Pole on December 27, 2025.

Kaamya has successfully climbed:

Mount Kilimanjaro (Africa)

Mount Elbrus (Europe)

Mount Kosciuszko (Australia)

Mount Aconcagua (South America)

Mount Denali (North America)

Mount Everest (Asia)

Mount Vinson (Antarctica)

She is the second-youngest female in the world and the youngest Indian to climb Mount Everest from the Nepal side, which she scaled at the age of 16 in May 2024.

25) Answer: B

Select provisions of the National Sports Governance Act, 2025 came into effect from January 1, 2026, marking a major reform in India’s sports governance framework.

The Act was notified in August 2025 and provides statutory backing to reforms that were earlier implemented only through government guidelines.

The law applies to key sports institutions including the National Olympic Committee, National Paralympic Committee, and National Sports Federations, bringing them under a uniform legal framework.

26) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

The World Rapid and Blitz Chess Championship 2025 was held in Doha, Qatar, featuring elite players from across the world and delivering high-intensity competition.

Magnus Carlsen won the World Blitz Chess Championship for a record ninth time, reaffirming his dominance in the fastest format of the game.

Arjun Erigaisi delivered a strong performance, winning the bronze medal in the Blitz event and emerging as one of the standout players of the tournament.

Detailed Explanation:

The World Rapid and Blitz Chess Championship 2025 was held in Doha, Qatar, featuring elite players from across the world and delivering high-intensity competition.

Magnus Carlsen won the World Blitz Chess Championship for a record ninth time, reaffirming his dominance in the fastest format of the game.

Despite struggling in the round-robin stage with blunders, time trouble, and forfeits, Carlsen showed exceptional experience and mental resilience in the knockout rounds.

In the final, Carlsen defeated Nodirbek Abdusattorov, later describing the victory as one of the hardest-earned world titles of his career.

Arjun Erigaisi delivered a strong performance, winning the bronze medal in the Blitz event and emerging as one of the standout players of the tournament.

27) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) has unveiled a new official logo and mascot as part of its efforts to modernise institutional identity and strengthen public outreach.

Detailed Explanation:

The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) has unveiled a new official logo and mascot as part of its efforts to modernise institutional identity and strengthen public outreach.

The initiative aims to improve trust in official statistics, promote data-driven governance, and highlight the role of reliable data in policy formulation and nation-building.

The new logo is based on the theme “Data for Development”, underscoring the importance of statistics in India’s economic and social progress.

It reflects MoSPI’s mission to provide credible, timely, and transparent data to support evidence-based decision-making across sectors such as economy, health, education, and infrastructure.

The logo incorporates the Ashoka Chakra, symbolising truth, transparency, and good governance.

28) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

Hockey India has announced the appointment of Sjoerd Marijne as the Chief Coach of the Indian women’s hockey team, giving a major boost to the team ahead of key international events.

Detailed Explanation:

Hockey India has announced the appointment of Sjoerd Marijne as the Chief Coach of the Indian women’s hockey team, giving a major boost to the team ahead of key international events.

The appointment comes at a crucial time as India prepares for the FIH Women’s Hockey World Cup Qualifiers, scheduled to be held in March.

Sjoerd Marijne is an experienced Dutch international hockey coach with a strong track record at the global level.

29) Answer: D

World Braille Day 2026 is observed on 4 January every year across the world.

The day is celebrated to honour the birth anniversary of Louis Braille, the inventor of the Braille system.

The term “Braille” is named after its inventor Louis Braille.

Louis Braille lost his vision in childhood after accidentally injuring his eye with his father’s awl.

30) Answer: E

Bulgaria adopted the Euro (EUR) as its official currency from January 1, 2026, replacing the Bulgarian lev (BGN) after approval by the Council of the European Union (EU) on July 8, 2025, confirming compliance with all Maastricht convergence criteria.

With this move, Bulgaria became the 21st member of the Eurozone, marking a significant step toward deeper economic integration with the European Union.